Your previous video about the Zephyr inspired my wife and I to take Amtrak. We had a wonderful time talking to people enthusiastic about not just train travel, but travel in general. I’m so happy I found your channel. Safe travels, my friend!
The Zephyr and the Empire Builder are on our bucket list. You CAN still enjoy rides on AMTRAK, IN SPITE OF AMTRAK's management. Hope to see you along the routes!
@@GreenerGrass i have found that drinking Chia seeds soaked in hot water is a much easier and more effective way to supplement your diet with fiber than prunes
@@chrisoleary9876 I don't remember the police on the train. I DO remember Cary and Eva Marie riding the train at the end! Also Steve McQueen chasing the thief to get his stolen-stolen money back and getting off at Alpine to turn around again.
As a friendly introvert, the idea of 3 days on a train where I can hang out alone in my room contemplating America out the window, or venture forth to visit with fellow travelers when the mood strikes sounds like heaven!
Jeb I so much enjoy your videos, I am a 94 year old resident of an assisted living community in Monroe NC and through the videos I can travel the world. My family has included members of the travel community, My grandfather was one of the first engineers on the "Katy" railroad and my brother was a Captain for Pan Am. I did a good bit of traveling when I was younger but since I can no longer do that your videos take me around the world. Thank you!
What places have you traveled over the years? Did you travel by car, plane or train? I visited Yosemite and fell in love. Also Colorado is beautiful. Grew up in countryside in Connecticut. Always love nature. Long distance Train travel looks great! I hope to do it some day.
These old videos are making me so EXCITED! I just booked a 3 week vacation for my 13 year old and me. It's not until summer 2024 but I got a great price package booking so far ahead. We're taking 2 across country trips. I'm preparing, making a list of what we will need. A snacks list! We are both really excited for a.much needed vacation.
You must be one of the most optimistic, uplifting vloggers ever. My mood is always boosted after spending time with you. Thank you so much, Jeb, for your generous sharings.
Yes I agree! @Jeb Brooks got me through some dark times during covid. I watched many videos from the before times during covid and they were always so positive and refreshing.
Never going to forget riding Amtrak to Chicago, with a friend, as a kid. Killing time and exploring Union Station, while waiting for my friend's dad, who was an Amtrak conductor. Union Station's interior was an amazing representation of a bygone era. Countless times those same trains passed by my childhood home, a few houses from the local rail yards. The horn, rumble and earth shaking vibration all a several times daily experience. It surprises me how much I miss it. This also reminds me of how much I miss my own Dad. I can still see him, on one of his regular strolls down to the corner. Standing and watching this great metal serpent go by. Lost in his own thoughts and memories.
I grew up in Washington DC, but have been living in Southern California since 1961. In the year 2001 my high school class was having its 50th reunion. Since I was now retired with plenty of time I decided to go by AMTRAK. That convinced me that for me airline travel was a thing of the past. Since then I have been back every year until 2021. Usually I go from here to Chicago, then the the capital limited to DC. Since two of my kids live in Boston sometimes I AMTRAK it there and then down to DC. Coming home I reverse the route. I have also taken AMTRAK from DC to New Orleans and from there the route through TEXAS back to LA. I have taken every route from LA to Chicago including the route from Seattle. Two years ago. the number of orbits the earth has made around the sun with me as a passenger started getting to me so I haven't made the trip since. Then I discovered site like this one where I can again feel the joy of travel. Thank you all so very very much for helping to make and old man feel young again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This might be a weird one, but I’ve been trying to quit drinking, New Year’s Eve was difficult (as you can imagine). But binge watching your videos on New Year’s Eve, right up until the bell, was a massive comfort and I be I’ve started the year on a great footing because of it. Continue success Jeb! Never stop adventuring!
Wishing you the best of everything following your decision to leave alcohol behind, especially as New Year is such an emotional time . I salute you. God Bless you. 🙏
It’s been going really well! Pretty unsurprisingly everything in life seems clearer! I did have one drink a few weeks ago, I was gifted a bottle of very expensive champagne from my CEO for working so hard. Seemed rude not to celebrate a little!
@@clutch2315 Hello! Thank you for checking in! I can’t say it’s been perfect, there were a few dips this summer but the guilt has certainly made me concentrate harder on the task at hand.
I’ve made this trip dozens of times! I actually got stuck in Chicago during a major blizzard and the trip last an entire week as Amtrak had to pay for us to stay in a hotel because the tracks were frozen. They give you food vouchers and actually put us in a really nice hotel downtown for 3 nights. For anyone reading this always make sure you get a lower level seat if you can. Much quieter and more convenient or get a sleeper.
I thought about taking a train from NC to Sacramento, CA area but it would take me up to Wash DC first, then to Chicago, then Calif. I would save up and get myself a small sleeper, as it's pretty expensive. I'd like to see that route on video before making any final decisions, though.
I love the fact that Jeb pays respect to even the support staff who service the trains on his stops. I am new to the channel, but I'll be a long-time viewer. Thank you for these!
This video is Extra Special to Me! The Lady Attendants voice in the beginning of the video is my Mom! So freaking Awesome! ❤ Thank you for Such amazing visual that is the U.S.A!
Totally inspiring! Been over a decade since I last visited your beautiful country and your video has woken me up to the fact that I have to return ASAP and experience one of these magnificent rail journeys! Now 70 years old, I must wake up and smell the coffee while I still have the time! Thank you, thank you! Paul UK
I would say please come visit but just stay away from Californias democrat socialist cities that are homeless full and smash and grabs in broad daylight where thugs drive slow, stop at a car, look for bags or boxes and smash the window and take it with literally no fear of repercussions as Newsome basically DEcriminalized theft under $1000 which is why stores are closing and leaving cities like San Francisco and Chicago and Dallas. Have fun though
@@RomNYCCan you ask Jeb why he didn't mention the entire cost ? It just would have been nice to share this so we may be encouraged to take the trip and help him by subscribing to watch his other videos . There's a young lady husband named Ludwig she travels everywhere and gives you the experience and her tottal cost the Zepher was about 2,000 she gives the exact amount including wh a t she bought from little stores they stopped at exact to the pennies and dollars 💵
A long time ago, my father worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Prunes were nicknamed CPR strawberries. They were an essential addition for regularity.
Thank you for allowing this Aussie to glimpse what I have never been able to do . I loved the way you showed ‘raw natural beauty ‘ and not touristy places. I miss my late Chicago husband and seeing this video made me remember him.
Stumbled upon your channel today and watched this video. I must say, this was a better blog than I have ever seen on TH-cam, PBS, etc. The quick cuts between camera views, clean voice overs, streamlined script... it all flows VERY well! You can hear the excitement in your voice and I cannot wait to check out your other videos as well! Great job!
The only problem with the quick cuts is that you're looking at cool scenery for only one second per shot. Every single time it's just one second. You're looking at it and thinking oh wow, that's cool, then aww damnit! and it cuts back to inside the train! Lol.. No but seriously this was a really great video, I watched the entire thing, glued to the computer screen. It was an awesome trip.
Jeb I am just in love with your videos!! Editing is perfect!! I traveled Amtrak as a child and now, 70 years later, I can enjoy all over again!!! I love your soothing voice! And love the minutiae!! Storage spaces, and exactly what food items are available and snacks in the cafe car!!! You had my mouth watering!!! I'm looking forward to watching them all. Hope Southwest Chief is one of them!! You have made my day. Many thanks, Jeb!
@@evabalga6133 It's not that, really. It's that train tracks are almost always going through slummy areas. Nice areas are not developed near train tracks for obvious reasons (noise). But yes, there is a lot of poverty. You don't usually see it though because who wants to visit those areas? No one.
Earlier this year, my wife, 11-year-old daughter, and I took a similar 3-day train trip between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. We enjoyed the time adventuring together. I enjoy your videos. Cheers.
Another Amtrak long-distance train to add to my "Bucket List". The Amtrak experience is truly unique - Red Caps, traditional dining & the Observation car. A great way to relax & see America.
Because of this video, I took the Texas Eagle from Chicago to LA, and I agree that it was the most relaxing of all my Amtrak trips. The dining and sleeping car attendants were the best. And, I really loved all the small towns and diversity of the landscape, and cruising right next to the border with Mexico. The hours passed so quickly -- I loved it. Thanks for your videos!
I traveled in Sept 2023, and I paid just over $2,000 for a bedroom, for one person. Pricey. The roomettes are about half that price and sufficient for one person, but the roomette would be very tight for two people for this long of a trip. Also, I wanted ensuite toilet and shower. @@wcoasttigger
Your passion for rail travel really shines through in these vlogs. I love your unbiased, objective views of America, as an Australian this is a rare opportunity to see America’s’ “backyard”…I can’t but think of the countless stories behind so many towns and places, thanks for sharing 66 hours of really interesting train travel👏
I've taken almost all of Amtrak's long distance routes over the years. In 2014 I rode the Sunset Limited from LA to New Orleans, and I loved going through the desert. I kept expecting Gene Autry or Roy Rogers to ride up next to the train!
Texas is the most amazing state to travel through, whether by train, bus or car. So many great towns and cities to see. Visited here in 2013, fell in love and now it's my home.
Just had my knee replaced. Your video brought me peace and happiness on a pretty crappy night of recovery. I've worked for the railroads, been a passenger, and the railroads have been a life long passion. Here in the SF Bay Area, I drift off to sleep listening to the locals, and long haul traffic; the horns lulling me to sleep every night. Your videos are excellent, providing details and lots of research. Working with the crews also provides me with even more insight into the life of a "Rail". Donner and the FRC are part of my photography adventures, lots of places to enjoy the magnificent views. and seasons. Thank you again for your videos from Brad "Redzone" Paulus. Highball and Run-8.
These are some of the only videos on youtube i can watch from beginning to ending without skipping anything. While I never experienced a long term train ride, just taking the train from NY to Philadelphia did inspire me to want to try some longer interstate train adventures. These videos inspire me to make it happen. Thank you!
In the 60's my family and I traveled on the Rock Island line from Iowa to Phoenix. I was young but I remember how cool it was! Here I am nearly 60 years later still loved that trip!
Train travel is everything and so much more! We LOVE Love love train traveling. It is definitely the best way to go! Thank you AMTRAK! We have been on that train and are planning to go again. Thanks Jeb for your great commentary.
In 1970 I travelled by train from Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh then on to Chicago where we joined this train to Los Angeles before changing to another train to San Francisco where we overnighted in an hotel. Next morning we joined another train which took us to Winnimucker where we met relatives & stayed overnight before driving with them to Idaho. After a couple of weeks in Idaho we bussed to Salt Lake City where we joined a train (arriving 6 hours late) to Washington DC where we stayed with friends before flying back to the UK. We enjoyed the trip immensely but would always (especially in your 80s) recommend upgrading your bedroom. The food was amazing, the scenery breathtaking & the service on the train fantastic. One of the best memories of my life.
Can I just say thank you!. I've been completely bummed out since I haven't been able to cruise. This is the perfect therapy. Railway travel is going to be my new cruise.
Amtrak's cabins are smaller and the food variety not as grand, but planning a month long Amtrak journey around America with planned layovers is like a land cruise on a ride of steel rails...
OMG! I was thinking the same thing. This could be an alternative to a cruise during these uncertain times. I truly enjoyed this informative video. Very well done!
Very impressive video!!! The editing, narration, storytelling, and music are top-notch. This has to be one of the best videos you have ever done. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Hearing the name of some cities, reminded me when I was living in the US: Chicago, St Louis, Dallas, Austin (where I was actually studying), San Antonio and El Paso. Thanks for this long video. I loved it. 👍🏻
In 1977 I was 7 years old, traveling with my family on The Sunset Ltd. from New Orleans to Los Angeles in coach. I have lots of good memories from that trip.
I know it's hard for Amtrak to support the Dinning car experience, because it's not a money maker. But from a soft prospectus, it's the reason many people book these long distance trains and is one of it's best features. This was one of the best part of my train travels when booking a bedroom on the SW Chief, and Capital limited. Without, it I wouldn't even consider buying a ticket. I hope Amtrak Mgt. is listening.
Very impressive. I think that Amtrack is a true experience for any traveler. It’s also funny how this route on aircraft only takes in time in a matter of hours versus days. Glad to see some different content on the channel!
There is a reason why Congress created Amtrak in the first place. Even the US government itself with the USPS chose to fly the mail long distances a half century ago. Hours instead of days as you noted... No longer do passenger trains in America have on their consists a dozen or more mail cars... America is a large nation, not a TINY nation like Germany or France...
Amtrak is a step back in time to a previous era and geared to the moderate income to enjoy. In 2006 I took the Chicago Amtrak to Los Angeles. The Rockies had me daydreaming of stagecoach days & pioneers. Amazing beauty out there. If Amtrak maintains quality meals they will keep passengers, Americans love to eat. Just not frozen dinners.
I had that experience with Alaska Rail's Coast Classic. They even do Flag stops still. The Alaska Railroad is still 100% vital for transport into areas of the interior and it shows.
Texas be a big boy. Driving East/West on I-10 in Texas from Orange TX. on the Louisiana border to El Paso, TX. on the New Mexico border takes 13 hrs. of hard driving. 850 miles. Gotta love it.
Alright, I can't resist one more comment. It is amazing to see your footage at about 29m30s. It is hard to believe that, not only people survive living in West Texas but make a living and thrive there. Truly such a wonderful and memorable trip that you had Jeb!
That looks like an awesome trip! I’m a firefighter and my fire station is about 100 yards from the rail line that the Texas Eagle rolls in on. I regularly see it come in at night as it makes it’s way to Sunset Station in downtown San Antonio. For those of you how have never been to San Antonio, the train station is about a half mile from the Alamo and river walk. Great video Jeb, thank you.
He was also flipped and flopped at San Antonio. North of San Antonio he was on the starboard side of the train, west of San Antonio he was on the port side of the train. From the first car behind the locomotive to the last car behind the locomotive. The shunting operation in San Antonio does this because the Eagle arrives at the Sunset Station in a northbound direction circling around downtown San Antonio while the Sunset Limited arrives at the Sunset Station in a southbound direction directly from Houston. Eagle uses the old Missouri Pacific tracks whereas the Sunset Limited uses the old Southern Pacific tracks in San Antonio.
Hi, I am new here, I don’t know if you read your comments but I want to say a big thank you for showing me places I will never get to see, some of the scenery is amazing and your commentary is peaceful ( if that makes sense) best wishes from the UK 🇬🇧
Well done Jeb, I’ve travelled over 40,000 miles by Amtrak and you capture it perfectly. I think the Coast Starlight is naturally your next route to take….
Excellent. Enjoyed every minute of watching. Haven't been to the USA since the 80s. Absolutely loved it that time. Very like Australia, but with quirky, pleasant surprises along the way. Once Covid quietens down a bit I want to go back; and some Amtrak trips are certainly on the agenda.
Took my wife and two young kids from Boston to Tucson. Sleeper cars all the way. 8 days round trip! Fantastic journey. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Amtrak staff are the very best, most personable folks you could ever meet.
I myself have taken this trip several times. Once to Los Angeles then on to Seattle And another time from Los Angeles to San Diego. Both were great trips And the foods pretty good. I have been on every line that Amtrak offers And my dad was once a Ichef on the Zephyr. I myself as a professional truck driver for 32 years and And also traveling by train has definitely given me a wonderful perspective on how beautiful this country is. I would definitely recommend trying travel to anyone who hasn't done it
I found it takes forever to get out of Texas, but that was by car. On the train back in the 50th's I traveled from California to New York and it was wonderful. My dad worked for Santa Fe and we traveled for free. What a great time we had!! In between cars as I walked I saw a tornado to my left, but really didn't know it was dangerous, all I knew about was earthquakes. Thanks for the return ride!!
I’ve gone New York to Chicago to L.A. and the other way around multiple times. Just when I think I wouldn’t do it again I catch myself pricing out tickets and binging your videos! Love rail travel..
I try to understand why jeb makes me feel comfy in his videos.. and I'm reminded back to when I was young we would watch a show called the "texas country reporter." It taught us about the great state I live in and It reminds me of it every time I see a Jeb video. Keep up the Quality content Jeb!
I wanna do this one sometime this summer, and I was waffling on getting a bedroom vs a roomette as a single person, but I think this video really sells the bedroom on such a long train journey. Love seeing your passion for Amtrak, thank you so much for the great video!! (also the cafe car is fine, and it is good to give a lil extra support to Amtrak if you want, but my biggest piece of advice, especially on a long haul train-- whether you're in a sleeper or a coach car-- is to pack a bag of snacks and drinks. if you're departing from Chicago there's a Target on South State St, it's about an 18 minute walk or a 10 minute bus ride. over time some of those Amtrak snack prices can really add up. OH! and duct tape! wrap some around a pen or a pencil if you don't wanna carry a whole roll with you, works wonders for those rattling bathroom doors :D)
Not only the bathroom doors, but the aisle doors have also been known to rattle... Having been in service nearly fifty years, it is a wonder Amtrak has been able to keep this Superliner fleet running... They are going to get a well earned refurbishment in the next few years, but Amtrak this fleet needs replacing with new fleet of Superliner cars, not just a refurbishment...
Did this trip once but in reverse from Los Angeles. Continued on from Chicago to Syracuse, NY on the Lake Shore Limited. It was broken up with a 3 day stop over in Dallas. It was a great experience. I have traveled on many of Amtrak's long distance trains and thoroughly enjoy every minute of it.
Seven years ago, I took the Sunset Limited from Hoiuston to LA. It was a great train journey. I did get off at San Antonio to watch them join the trains together for the rest of the trip and got a photo of the Hemisphere Tower off in the distance. I have to say the coffee was kept available in my sleeper car all the times I used it, which were a lot!
Hey Jeb, you have sparked my interest in taking an overnight trip on the train. I really believe that you could make a 4 day car trip with rambunctious kids interesting and inviting. Thanks again.
I ride all the time from Spokane, Washington to Tampa, Florida on Amtrak! You just have a nice short little hop and sometimes my trip takes up to six days! Trip is totally worth it, you just need time, patience and a little money...🤗
Great video! I rode the eagle back to Chicago from Springfield in 2014. I loved the roomette and the lounge/observation car (back when they included it on this route.)
Well for the next few years there won't be any Sightseeing Lounges on the Eagle north of San Antonio. Presently Amtrak is refurbishing their entire fleet of Superliners, and the Eagle/Capitol Limited shared fleet is withheld until Amtrak's entire fleet of Sightseeing Lounges is refurbished. Obviously the Rocky Mountain and Pacific Coast Superliner trains have a higher priority for Sightseeing Lounges...
Greetings from Limerick, Ireland, Jeb! I took the Eagle in the opposite direction in 1991, and so this was a wonderful trip down memory lane. I always wondered about the individual sleeper, so I just might have to do it again! The United States has countryside like nowhere else. And you meet the most incredible people travelling Amtrak!
Great video Jeb. I used to work for a hospital management company with facilities in very rural locations and you hit a few in this journey - Temple, TX, Alpine, TX and Deming, NM. Definitely looks like a bucket list journey for sure.
Hello Jeb I love your videos and I'm thinking of taking this to Denver Colorado to Milwaukee Wisconsin doing this for the scenery and the adventure just like what you said previously had one of your videos thank you so much 💯💯💯
Excellent video!! I did this exact trip back in July 2018 and it was great. While I am a die-hard railfan, I too wondered if I would become bored on such a long train ride. Nope. My experiences were similar to yours except that we had a 5-hour delay at the depot in Del Rio, TX due to a disabled freight train. But it was all good. Instead of a o dark thirty arrive in LA, we arrived around noon. Enjoy your videos very much. Thanks again.
Be not embarrassed...I feel the same kind of excitement when I start a train journey! Always happy to see Chicago Union Station, but I would like to see a more detailed view of the food court and shops. I didn't partake when I came through a few years ago to catch the #21 Texas Eagle to San Antonio, and I sort of regretted it afterward, but I was so fascinated by Union Station itself. I like your remarks about riding through Texas; I lived in Texas for many years and go back regularly, so I've also seen a lot of the places you went through from the perspective of driving a car. I very much enjoyed seeing it all from another angle, both in your video and on my personal trip. Note: It looks better in the late summer when I went through on the Eagle! Another note, when I rode the Eagle #21, it had the full dining car service, and all the meals were excellent. The only small gripe I ever had was when the grits were watery one morning at breakfast! Thanks for reviving some great memories and making me want to go again, this time all the way to LA!
Hey Jeb, you inspired my g/f and I to take the train a year or so ago and we've both fallen in love with it! I wanted to share something I found out on my last time aboard the Amtrak going from Tampa FL., to Lynchburg, VA. It may not be very clear to folks taking the train for a long trip, but apparently those café & snack cars ENTIRE menu is free to any sleeper guest. I thought we had to pay for snacks in between meals but I hilariously got chased back to the café car by the Amtrak snack lady that was working the snack counter. I got two breakfast sandwiches and two muffins for snacking later completely free, and this was after breakfast was served but before lunch. Apparently you can get anything you want on the menu and it's completely free.
I believe this is only true on trains with either flexible dining or no dedicated sleeper dining service at all. For trains with traditional dining like the leg from San Antonio to LA, the cafe is still extra.
It is a shame the Dems HATE Texas. The Texas Eagle SHOULD have traditional dining for the entire route. Amtrak is refurbishing their Superliner fleet over the next few years, the Sightseeing Lounge car was removed and will remain removed from the Eagle until all of Amtrak's fleet of Sightseeing Lounges have been refurbished. Why screw Texas Amtrak?
@@ronclark9724 As you probably know flex dining was installed by CEO Richard Anderson who was installed by the Trump administration. Was he responsible for the planning to remove the observation car? Idk. Anderson is from Texas.
*totally agreed; been to so many countries, living in Texas for last 22 years I must say there's no country like USA, no state like Texas, no city like Houston, and no suburb like sugar land*
A really great video - with excellent filming and narration - what a journey! Good to see traditional dining (and tablecloths) return. Loved the names of some of the towns you travelled through - we've got a 'Hope' here in the UK.......but as far as I know - no 'Normal!' Will check out your other journey's.
I’ve never been to W. Texas. It’s such a beautiful place. I going to have to take this trip. I love trains. I need to go to N. M. Being a city girl…. I’m amazed with all the open spaces in the west! Amtrak is an adventure of a lifetime. 💫
Two thumbs up 👍👍!!! Kudos Jeb for another on point, spot on, masterful presentation and commentary 👏. I have always enjoyed watching your plane ride reviews, and with your upbeat, honestly told Amtrak videos, I am re-inspired to ride the rails. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
I am a youtube junkie. Such a great way to learn , sometimes usless information. Great information here! My spouse and I find you and your spouse so comforting.
Thank you for your travels and comments. We are going on a train trip with a 9 year old soon and your travels are inspiring and informative! Keep up the great work!🤗
This was a great video! The ride must have taken so long to get to Lax. But the views and things you must have seen on the journey must have made It fly by. Definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for the video Jeb! And cya on the rails!🛤🚂👍
Most people traveling between Los Angeles and Chicago will take the Southwest Chief instead of the Texas Eagle because the Chief is a more direct route between the 2 cites and doesn't have to wait hours to connect to another train like the Eagle does in San Antonio!
@@norfolksouthernrailfan2006 For most yes. But for those served by the Eagle the Eagle is better, especially if you live in America's second largest populated state, Texas... Frankly Amtrak's service in Texas is very, very poor considering Texas is LARGER than Illinois... Get with it Amtrak!
Thanks Jeb, we've now both taken the Alaska R/R, however I've only taken Amtrak from Seattle to L.A.( not in a sleeper mind you). Great video, especially of areas of the south I haven't seen! Safe travels!!
Hey Jeb. After viewing several of your Amtrak videos, I'm seriously considering taking the Texas Eagle. After being on this planet for 68 years, my only experience with trains have been limited to both Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. Pretty awful wouldn't you say! Lol 🤣
try any train. :) it's just such an interesting experience to get from A to B while being able to walk around or just sit down and stare outside at the world without having to think of traffic.
If you're planning any overnights on the train, spend the extra money for a Roomette, or Bedroom. Otherwise, it will be miserable. With sleeping accommodations, your meals are included, as are the station VIP lounges. All the best to you!
Just got home in Appleton Wisconsin last week. I took the Texas Eagle to Tucson and back. I rode coach and had a great ride. One of the best things about Amtrak coach is you meet people who you sort of buddy up with in your car. This has always been the case with me and the Texas Eagle was no different. Amtrak takes good care of you but it is not Singapore airlines. If you expect champagne bubble baths Amtrak is not for you. However if you enjoy adventure and can tolerate a few bumps, Amtrak is the way to go. The snacks served in the cafe are reasonably priced and very good. The coach seats are comfortable. I have taken three Amtrak rides now. The Empire Builder, the Hiawatha and the Texas Eagle. Next spring I am taking the Southwest Chief. Try it for a short haul first and experience it before commiting to a long ride. I love Amtrak.
I traveled to work via the TRE (here in Dallas) and DART and would see the Amtrak train roll in regularly. Cool to see what's inside and where it goes.
Jeb, great video as always. I love your Amtrak videos. Some movie trivia for you, the staircase you show at Union Station was where the baby carriage/shootout scene in the Untouchables was filmed. At one time they had a plaque somewhere near there mentioning that. Keep up the great work. Steve R.
Your previous video about the Zephyr inspired my wife and I to take Amtrak. We had a wonderful time talking to people enthusiastic about not just train travel, but travel in general. I’m so happy I found your channel. Safe travels, my friend!
Sounds like "North by Northwest." The police interview in the sleeper car...
I’m so glad you took the trip! And even more glad you had a great time!!
The Zephyr and the Empire Builder are on our bucket list. You CAN still enjoy rides on AMTRAK, IN SPITE OF AMTRAK's management. Hope to see you along the routes!
@@GreenerGrass i have found that drinking Chia seeds soaked in hot water is a much easier and more effective way to supplement your diet with fiber than prunes
@@chrisoleary9876 I don't remember the police on the train. I DO remember Cary and Eva Marie riding the train at the end!
Also Steve McQueen chasing the thief to get his stolen-stolen money back and getting off at Alpine to turn around again.
As a friendly introvert, the idea of 3 days on a train where I can hang out alone in my room contemplating America out the window, or venture forth to visit with fellow travelers when the mood strikes sounds like heaven!
Bec
Good job
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Jeb I so much enjoy your videos, I am a 94 year old resident of an assisted living community in Monroe NC and through the videos I can travel the world. My family has included members of the travel community, My grandfather was one of the first engineers on the "Katy" railroad and my brother was a Captain for Pan Am. I did a good bit of traveling when I was younger but since I can no longer do that your videos take me around the world. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing a bit of your story with us. Sounds like you have a wonderful family.
What places have you traveled over the years? Did you travel by car, plane or train? I visited Yosemite and fell in love. Also Colorado is beautiful. Grew up in countryside in Connecticut. Always love nature. Long distance Train travel looks great! I hope to do it some day.
Google train travel, cruise travel, bus travel and go every where a lot of ways!
Hope you are still kicking strong. I hope to live such a long life.
You're welcome, Aloise!
These old videos are making me so EXCITED! I just booked a 3 week vacation for my 13 year old and me. It's not until summer 2024 but I got a great price package booking so far ahead. We're taking 2 across country trips. I'm preparing, making a list of what we will need. A snacks list! We are both really excited for a.much needed vacation.
I'd be more concerned where I workout
Super exciting! Hope you have a blast!
Be sure and let us know how the trips turn out. Happy travels!
I hope you two have a great time! Traveling with my parents was always the best, but thank God I don’t have kids of my own… yet 😉
Don’t care what anyone says, but these Amtrak videos are extremely fun
I agree!
You must be one of the most optimistic, uplifting vloggers ever. My mood is always boosted after spending time with you. Thank you so much, Jeb, for your generous sharings.
Wow, thank you!
@@GreenerGrass my first time watching your videos which are great by the way but what is going on with the prune thing....yuck!
Have you ever been to nz?(trains,nosleepers) love your journeys.thanks... from a kiwi
Do you crank to him or nah?
Yes I agree! @Jeb Brooks got me through some dark times during covid. I watched many videos from the before times during covid and they were always so positive and refreshing.
A 66 hour trip all in 37 minutes, stunning!
Never going to forget riding Amtrak to Chicago, with a friend, as a kid. Killing time and exploring Union Station, while waiting for my friend's dad, who was an Amtrak conductor. Union Station's interior was an amazing representation of a bygone era. Countless times those same trains passed by my childhood home, a few houses from the local rail yards. The horn, rumble and earth shaking vibration all a several times daily experience. It surprises me how much I miss it. This also reminds me of how much I miss my own Dad. I can still see him, on one of his regular strolls down to the corner. Standing and watching this great metal serpent go by. Lost in his own thoughts and memories.
... remembering Dad ...I do too ...
Serpent of joy.
I grew up in Washington DC, but have been living in Southern California since 1961. In the year 2001 my high school class was having its 50th reunion. Since I was now retired with plenty of time I decided to go by AMTRAK. That convinced me that for me airline travel was a thing of the past. Since then I have been back every year until 2021. Usually I go from here to Chicago, then the the capital limited to DC. Since two of my kids live in Boston sometimes I AMTRAK it there and then down to DC. Coming home I reverse the route. I have also taken AMTRAK from DC to New Orleans and from there the route through TEXAS back to LA. I have taken every route from LA to Chicago including the route from Seattle. Two years ago. the number of orbits the earth has made around the sun with me as a passenger started getting to me so I haven't made the trip since. Then I discovered site like this one where I can again feel the joy of travel. Thank you all so very very much for helping to make and old man feel young again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This might be a weird one, but I’ve been trying to quit drinking, New Year’s Eve was difficult (as you can imagine). But binge watching your videos on New Year’s Eve, right up until the bell, was a massive comfort and I be I’ve started the year on a great footing because of it. Continue success Jeb! Never stop adventuring!
Wishing you the best of everything following your decision to leave alcohol behind, especially as New Year is such an emotional time . I salute you. God Bless you. 🙏
Hows it been going since this comment?
It’s been going really well! Pretty unsurprisingly everything in life seems clearer! I did have one drink a few weeks ago, I was gifted a bottle of very expensive champagne from my CEO for working so hard. Seemed rude not to celebrate a little!
Hey Ben how are you holding up so far? When I quit the first time it was hell. I hope you're fairing well.
@@clutch2315 Hello! Thank you for checking in! I can’t say it’s been perfect, there were a few dips this summer but the guilt has certainly made me concentrate harder on the task at hand.
I’ve made this trip dozens of times! I actually got stuck in Chicago during a major blizzard and the trip last an entire week as Amtrak had to pay for us to stay in a hotel because the tracks were frozen. They give you food vouchers and actually put us in a really nice hotel downtown for 3 nights. For anyone reading this always make sure you get a lower level seat if you can. Much quieter and more convenient or get a sleeper.
Thank you so much for your advice! I’ll choose the lower level seat.
I thought about taking a train from NC to Sacramento, CA area but it would take me up to Wash DC first, then to Chicago, then Calif. I would save up and get myself a small sleeper, as it's pretty expensive. I'd like to see that route on video before making any final decisions, though.
The upper level is not that great at all for a long distant trip, so you are spot on, lower level is better
@Steve Lee damn
I love noises. It's soothing.
I love the fact that Jeb pays respect to even the support staff who service the trains on his stops. I am new to the channel, but I'll be a long-time viewer. Thank you for these!
This video is Extra Special to Me! The Lady Attendants voice in the beginning of the video is my Mom! So freaking Awesome! ❤ Thank you for Such amazing visual that is the U.S.A!
Your moms gives good advice
Your mom has an awesome job!
Your mom has a very friendly voice and does definitely give great advice. 😃
That's so cool!
This reminds me of being a kid, watching travel shows on PBS. Great editing and commentary!
Thanks so much!! I really appreciate your kind words!
Totally inspiring! Been over a decade since I last visited your beautiful country and your video has woken me up to the fact that I have to return ASAP and experience one of these magnificent rail journeys! Now 70 years old, I must wake up and smell the coffee while I still have the time! Thank you, thank you! Paul UK
I would say please come visit but just stay away from Californias democrat socialist cities that are homeless full and smash and grabs in broad daylight where thugs drive slow, stop at a car, look for bags or boxes and smash the window and take it with literally no fear of repercussions as Newsome basically DEcriminalized theft under $1000 which is why stores are closing and leaving cities like San Francisco and Chicago and Dallas. Have fun though
Edited tremendously well, this video made me truly forget everything else in my life for 37 minutes! Thank you Jeb as always!
Haha I had the same reaction! Love your stuff Jeb, this was a truly great episode.
Me too
💯!!
@@RomNYCCan you ask Jeb why he didn't mention the entire cost ? It just would have been nice to share this so we may be encouraged to take the trip and help him by subscribing to watch his other videos .
There's a young lady husband named Ludwig she travels everywhere and gives you the experience and her tottal cost the Zepher was about 2,000 she gives the exact amount including wh a t she bought from little stores they stopped at exact to the pennies and dollars 💵
A long time ago, my father worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Prunes were nicknamed CPR strawberries. They were an essential
addition for regularity.
Thank you for allowing this Aussie to glimpse what I have never been able to do . I loved the way you showed ‘raw natural beauty ‘ and not touristy places. I miss my late Chicago husband and seeing this video made me remember him.
Stumbled upon your channel today and watched this video. I must say, this was a better blog than I have ever seen on TH-cam, PBS, etc. The quick cuts between camera views, clean voice overs, streamlined script... it all flows VERY well! You can hear the excitement in your voice and I cannot wait to check out your other videos as well! Great job!
Wow! Thanks so much!!
The only problem with the quick cuts is that you're looking at cool scenery for only one second per shot. Every single time it's just one second. You're looking at it and thinking oh wow, that's cool, then aww damnit! and it cuts back to inside the train! Lol.. No but seriously this was a really great video, I watched the entire thing, glued to the computer screen. It was an awesome trip.
Jeb I am just in love with your videos!! Editing is perfect!! I traveled Amtrak as a child and now, 70 years later, I can enjoy all over again!!! I love your soothing voice! And love the minutiae!! Storage spaces, and exactly what food items are available and snacks in the cafe car!!! You had my mouth watering!!! I'm looking forward to watching them all. Hope Southwest Chief is one of them!! You have made my day. Many thanks, Jeb!
I’ve watched this video maybe 5 times and you can’t watch it enough it’s the most relaxing video ever
Thank you so much!
I love when he says "the scenery is less dramatic..." while the train is going past areas that could be considered slums.
The common sight from a train. Railroad tracks don't exactly attract 7-figure homes.
I didn't see any "slums": stop exaggerating. Just some abandoned/slightly run down homes or unkempt acres of land.
Heartbreaking to see so much poverty along the tracks in the south. Compare to farms and small towns of Midwest as you travel on Zephyr.
@@evabalga6133 It's not that, really. It's that train tracks are almost always going through slummy areas. Nice areas are not developed near train tracks for obvious reasons (noise). But yes, there is a lot of poverty. You don't usually see it though because who wants to visit those areas? No one.
@@trevorjameson3213 You are probably right, I just saw contrast of slums versus farms, silos, fields and small houses of Midwest along the tracks.
You consistently do a great job of making your viewers feel like we really are there with you! Keep up the great work!
Earlier this year, my wife, 11-year-old daughter, and I took a similar 3-day train trip between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. We enjoyed the time adventuring together. I enjoy your videos. Cheers.
No one cares
@@jacobpoucheractually i did
@tolucaheights do you want a egg roll?
@@jacobpoucher shouldn't you be playing with children you creep?
Another Amtrak long-distance train to add to my "Bucket List". The Amtrak experience is truly unique - Red Caps, traditional dining & the Observation car. A great way to relax & see America.
Going through small towns, esp. at night, is for me one of the high points of Amtrak travel.
PBS professional doc style and perfect editing. Well done.⛄️
Because of this video, I took the Texas Eagle from Chicago to LA, and I agree that it was the most relaxing of all my Amtrak trips. The dining and sleeping car attendants were the best. And, I really loved all the small towns and diversity of the landscape, and cruising right next to the border with Mexico. The hours passed so quickly -- I loved it. Thanks for your videos!
If you dont mind, roughly how much was it for the sleeper? What time of year did you travel?
I traveled in Sept 2023, and I paid just over $2,000 for a bedroom, for one person. Pricey. The roomettes are about half that price and sufficient for one person, but the roomette would be very tight for two people for this long of a trip. Also, I wanted ensuite toilet and shower. @@wcoasttigger
Texas Eagle doesn't go to LA, it goes all the way to San Antonio with a transfer on sunset limited to LA
@@jasonn4597 it does connect with the Sunset Limited at San Antonio, but when you book it, you book the Texas Eagle from Chicago to LA.
Your passion for rail travel really shines through in these vlogs. I love your unbiased, objective views of America, as an Australian this is a rare opportunity to see America’s’ “backyard”…I can’t but think of the countless stories behind so many towns and places, thanks for sharing 66 hours of really interesting train travel👏
I've taken almost all of Amtrak's long distance routes over the years. In 2014 I rode the Sunset Limited from LA to New Orleans, and I loved going through the desert. I kept expecting Gene Autry or Roy Rogers to ride up next to the train!
I would think of Butch Cassidy, Jesse James, or the Dalton Gang!
I literally was just telling my mom that for my 40th birthday I wanted to take a train ride around the US and this sounds perfect!!
Loved your videos Jeb I'm currently in the process of getting hired for Amtrak and this video makes me more excited than ever to join them
Texas is the most amazing state to travel through, whether by train, bus or car. So many great towns and cities to see. Visited here in 2013, fell in love and now it's my home.
Just had my knee replaced. Your video brought me peace and happiness on a pretty crappy night of recovery. I've worked for the railroads, been a passenger, and the railroads have been a life long passion. Here in the SF Bay Area, I drift off to sleep listening to the locals, and long haul traffic; the horns lulling me to sleep every night. Your videos are excellent, providing details and lots of research. Working with the crews also provides me with even more insight into the life of a "Rail". Donner and the FRC are part of my photography adventures, lots of places to enjoy the magnificent views. and seasons. Thank you again for your videos from Brad "Redzone" Paulus. Highball and Run-8.
These are some of the only videos on youtube i can watch from beginning to ending without skipping anything. While I never experienced a long term train ride, just taking the train from NY to Philadelphia did inspire me to want to try some longer interstate train adventures. These videos inspire me to make it happen. Thank you!
Given how much I enjoyed the Zephyr, looks like I need to add this to my list. Great work Jeb :)
It was a much different kind of adventure. But a lot of fun! Hope you’ll hop onboard!
Me too, ME TOO ! 😎 🇺🇸
Me too
Top lads
All of Amtrak's sleeper trains are worth at least one ride, all of them....
Sweet home Chicago!! Born , Raised, still live
In the 60's my family and I traveled on the Rock Island line from Iowa to Phoenix. I was young but I remember how cool it was! Here I am nearly 60 years later still loved that trip!
Train travel is everything and so much more! We LOVE Love love train traveling. It is definitely the best way to go! Thank you AMTRAK! We have been on that train and are planning to go again. Thanks Jeb for your great commentary.
In 1970 I travelled by train from Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh then on to Chicago where we joined this train to Los Angeles before changing to another train to San Francisco where we overnighted in an hotel. Next morning we joined another train which took us to Winnimucker where we met relatives & stayed overnight before driving with them to Idaho. After a couple of weeks in Idaho we bussed to Salt Lake City where we joined a train (arriving 6 hours late) to Washington DC where we stayed with friends before flying back to the UK. We enjoyed the trip immensely but would always (especially in your 80s) recommend upgrading your bedroom. The food was amazing, the scenery breathtaking & the service on the train fantastic. One of the best memories of my life.
Can I just say thank you!. I've been completely bummed out since I haven't been able to cruise. This is the perfect therapy. Railway travel is going to be my new cruise.
Amtrak's cabins are smaller and the food variety not as grand, but planning a month long Amtrak journey around America with planned layovers is like a land cruise on a ride of steel rails...
OMG! I was thinking the same thing. This could be an alternative to a cruise during these uncertain times. I truly enjoyed this informative video. Very well done!
Very impressive video!!!
The editing, narration, storytelling, and music are top-notch. This has to be one of the best videos you have ever done.
Thank you for sharing it with us.
Hearing the name of some cities, reminded me when I was living in the US: Chicago, St Louis, Dallas, Austin (where I was actually studying), San Antonio and El Paso. Thanks for this long video. I loved it. 👍🏻
In 1977 I was 7 years old, traveling with my family on The Sunset Ltd. from New Orleans to Los Angeles in coach. I have lots of good memories from that trip.
With each video I watch, a train trip is looking more and more fun, and something I might think about doing!
I know it's hard for Amtrak to support the Dinning car experience, because it's not a money maker. But from a soft prospectus, it's the reason many people book these long distance trains and is one of it's best features. This was one of the best part of my train travels when booking a bedroom on the SW Chief, and Capital limited. Without, it I wouldn't even consider buying a ticket. I hope Amtrak Mgt. is listening.
Very impressive. I think that Amtrack is a true experience for any traveler. It’s also funny how this route on aircraft only takes in time in a matter of hours versus days. Glad to see some different content on the channel!
In Europe the plane and train are legit proven better than the car compared to the US. The sleeper trains there can go much faster than Amtrak's
There is a reason why Congress created Amtrak in the first place. Even the US government itself with the USPS chose to fly the mail long distances a half century ago. Hours instead of days as you noted... No longer do passenger trains in America have on their consists a dozen or more mail cars... America is a large nation, not a TINY nation like Germany or France...
Amtrak is a step back in time to a previous era and geared to the moderate income to enjoy. In 2006 I took the Chicago Amtrak to Los Angeles. The Rockies had me daydreaming of stagecoach days & pioneers. Amazing beauty out there. If Amtrak maintains quality meals they will keep passengers, Americans love to eat. Just not frozen dinners.
I had that experience with Alaska Rail's Coast Classic.
They even do Flag stops still. The Alaska Railroad is still 100% vital for transport into areas of the interior and it shows.
Texas be a big boy. Driving East/West on I-10 in Texas from Orange TX. on the Louisiana border to El Paso, TX. on the New Mexico border takes 13 hrs. of hard driving. 850 miles. Gotta love it.
Come to think of it, he’s the only aviation blogger that actually has or expressed gratitude for being able to do what he’s able to do.
Alright, I can't resist one more comment.
It is amazing to see your footage at about 29m30s.
It is hard to believe that, not only people survive living in West Texas but make a living and thrive there.
Truly such a wonderful and memorable trip that you had Jeb!
In the mid 60s I rode a passenger train with my grandmother from Louisiana to Chicago to visit my aunt. I remember that huge Chicago Union Station.
That looks like an awesome trip! I’m a firefighter and my fire station is about 100 yards from the rail line that the Texas Eagle rolls in on. I regularly see it come in at night as it makes it’s way to Sunset Station in downtown San Antonio. For those of you how have never been to San Antonio, the train station is about a half mile from the Alamo and river walk. Great video Jeb, thank you.
San Antonio is always one of my de-train and visit spots, mainly for the Riverwalk experience.
He was also flipped and flopped at San Antonio. North of San Antonio he was on the starboard side of the train, west of San Antonio he was on the port side of the train. From the first car behind the locomotive to the last car behind the locomotive. The shunting operation in San Antonio does this because the Eagle arrives at the Sunset Station in a northbound direction circling around downtown San Antonio while the Sunset Limited arrives at the Sunset Station in a southbound direction directly from Houston. Eagle uses the old Missouri Pacific tracks whereas the Sunset Limited uses the old Southern Pacific tracks in San Antonio.
Hi, I am new here, I don’t know if you read your comments but I want to say a big thank you for showing me places I will never get to see, some of the scenery is amazing and your commentary is peaceful ( if that makes sense) best wishes from the UK 🇬🇧
Well done Jeb, I’ve travelled over 40,000 miles by Amtrak and you capture it perfectly. I think the Coast Starlight is naturally your next route to take….
Excellent. Enjoyed every minute of watching. Haven't been to the USA since the 80s. Absolutely loved it that time. Very like Australia, but with quirky, pleasant surprises along the way. Once Covid quietens down a bit I want to go back; and some Amtrak trips are certainly on the agenda.
Took my wife and two young kids from Boston to Tucson. Sleeper cars all the way. 8 days round trip! Fantastic journey. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Amtrak staff are the very best, most personable folks you could ever meet.
I love how you sell your experiences, whether it be in the air or on a train. Also great editing and storytelling. Love this channel!❤️👍✈️
After watching this I made reservations to get on a train to train across the country!! Thanks!!
I myself have taken this trip several times. Once to Los Angeles then on to Seattle And another time from Los Angeles to San Diego. Both were great trips And the foods pretty good. I have been on every line that Amtrak offers And my dad was once a Ichef on the Zephyr. I myself as a professional truck driver for 32 years and And also traveling by train has definitely given me a wonderful perspective on how beautiful this country is. I would definitely recommend trying travel to anyone who hasn't done it
I found it takes forever to get out of Texas, but that was by car. On the train back in the 50th's I traveled from California to New York and it was wonderful. My dad worked for Santa Fe and we traveled for free. What a great time we had!! In between cars as I walked I saw a tornado to my left, but really didn't know it was dangerous, all I knew about was earthquakes. Thanks for the return ride!!
I’ve gone New York to Chicago to L.A. and the other way around multiple times. Just when I think I wouldn’t do it again I catch myself pricing out tickets and binging your videos! Love rail travel..
Thanks for taking us on your adventure across the US. Thoroughly enjoyable
I try to understand why jeb makes me feel comfy in his videos.. and I'm reminded back to when I was young we would watch a show called the "texas country reporter." It taught us about the great state I live in and It reminds me of it every time I see a Jeb video. Keep up the Quality content Jeb!
Miss your wife... She adds a lot to your very interesting videos.
I wanna do this one sometime this summer, and I was waffling on getting a bedroom vs a roomette as a single person, but I think this video really sells the bedroom on such a long train journey. Love seeing your passion for Amtrak, thank you so much for the great video!!
(also the cafe car is fine, and it is good to give a lil extra support to Amtrak if you want, but my biggest piece of advice, especially on a long haul train-- whether you're in a sleeper or a coach car-- is to pack a bag of snacks and drinks. if you're departing from Chicago there's a Target on South State St, it's about an 18 minute walk or a 10 minute bus ride. over time some of those Amtrak snack prices can really add up. OH! and duct tape! wrap some around a pen or a pencil if you don't wanna carry a whole roll with you, works wonders for those rattling bathroom doors :D)
It is a good idea.
Not only the bathroom doors, but the aisle doors have also been known to rattle... Having been in service nearly fifty years, it is a wonder Amtrak has been able to keep this Superliner fleet running... They are going to get a well earned refurbishment in the next few years, but Amtrak this fleet needs replacing with new fleet of Superliner cars, not just a refurbishment...
Did this trip once but in reverse from Los Angeles. Continued on from Chicago to Syracuse, NY on the Lake Shore Limited. It was broken up with a 3 day stop over in Dallas. It was a great experience. I have traveled on many of Amtrak's long distance trains and thoroughly enjoy every minute of it.
Seven years ago, I took the Sunset Limited from Hoiuston to LA. It was a great train journey. I did get off at San Antonio to watch them join the trains together for the rest of the trip and got a photo of the Hemisphere Tower off in the distance. I have to say the coffee was kept available in my sleeper car all the times I used it, which were a lot!
Hey Jeb, you have sparked my interest in taking an overnight trip on the train. I really believe that you could make a 4 day car trip with rambunctious kids interesting and inviting. Thanks again.
Loved joining you on your Amtrak journey. Nice to see someone who appreciates American rail travel.
I ride all the time from Spokane, Washington to Tampa, Florida on Amtrak! You just have a nice short little hop and sometimes my trip takes up to six days! Trip is totally worth it, you just need time, patience and a little money...🤗
Great video! I rode the eagle back to Chicago from Springfield in 2014. I loved the roomette and the lounge/observation car (back when they included it on this route.)
Well for the next few years there won't be any Sightseeing Lounges on the Eagle north of San Antonio. Presently Amtrak is refurbishing their entire fleet of Superliners, and the Eagle/Capitol Limited shared fleet is withheld until Amtrak's entire fleet of Sightseeing Lounges is refurbished. Obviously the Rocky Mountain and Pacific
Coast Superliner trains have a higher priority for Sightseeing Lounges...
Greetings from Limerick, Ireland, Jeb! I took the Eagle in the opposite direction in 1991, and so this was a wonderful trip down memory lane. I always wondered about the individual sleeper, so I just might have to do it again! The United States has countryside like nowhere else. And you meet the most incredible people travelling Amtrak!
Luimneach abú!
AMTRAK has good routes.
As a non American your video was enlightening on so many aspects of train travel. Wonderfully put together and really enjoyable.
Wow! Great journey! I would like to take it one day myself, but you covered it so well and I could experience it vicariously! Thanks!
Really great video. As a Brit I can only dream of experiencing a rail journey so epic, so thank you for sharing yours.
Come for a visit, Andy!
I have watched a few train trips with different people. I'll tell you, like that song, nothing compares to you.
Great video Jeb. I used to work for a hospital management company with facilities in very rural locations and you hit a few in this journey - Temple, TX, Alpine, TX and Deming, NM. Definitely looks like a bucket list journey for sure.
I love to watch the landscape and towns that the train passes through.
Hello Jeb I love your videos and I'm thinking of taking this to Denver Colorado to Milwaukee Wisconsin doing this for the scenery and the adventure just like what you said previously had one of your videos thank you so much 💯💯💯
However with me and my partner
Excellent video!! I did this exact trip back in July 2018 and it was great. While I am a die-hard railfan, I too wondered if I would become bored on such a long train ride. Nope. My experiences were similar to yours except that we had a 5-hour delay at the depot in Del Rio, TX due to a disabled freight train. But it was all good. Instead of a o dark thirty arrive in LA, we arrived around noon. Enjoy your videos very much. Thanks again.
Be not embarrassed...I feel the same kind of excitement when I start a train journey! Always happy to see Chicago Union Station, but I would like to see a more detailed view of the food court and shops. I didn't partake when I came through a few years ago to catch the #21 Texas Eagle to San Antonio, and I sort of regretted it afterward, but I was so fascinated by Union Station itself. I like your remarks about riding through Texas; I lived in Texas for many years and go back regularly, so I've also seen a lot of the places you went through from the perspective of driving a car. I very much enjoyed seeing it all from another angle, both in your video and on my personal trip. Note: It looks better in the late summer when I went through on the Eagle! Another note, when I rode the Eagle #21, it had the full dining car service, and all the meals were excellent. The only small gripe I ever had was when the grits were watery one morning at breakfast! Thanks for reviving some great memories and making me want to go again, this time all the way to LA!
I was born and raised in Texas, so I’m partial to it! Texas Hill Country, where I live, is beautiful!
Hey Jeb, you inspired my g/f and I to take the train a year or so ago and we've both fallen in love with it! I wanted to share something I found out on my last time aboard the Amtrak going from Tampa FL., to Lynchburg, VA. It may not be very clear to folks taking the train for a long trip, but apparently those café & snack cars ENTIRE menu is free to any sleeper guest. I thought we had to pay for snacks in between meals but I hilariously got chased back to the café car by the Amtrak snack lady that was working the snack counter. I got two breakfast sandwiches and two muffins for snacking later completely free, and this was after breakfast was served but before lunch. Apparently you can get anything you want on the menu and it's completely free.
I believe this is only true on trains with either flexible dining or no dedicated sleeper dining service at all. For trains with traditional dining like the leg from San Antonio to LA, the cafe is still extra.
It is a shame the Dems HATE Texas. The Texas Eagle SHOULD have traditional dining for the entire route. Amtrak is refurbishing their Superliner fleet over the next few years, the Sightseeing Lounge car was removed and will remain removed from the Eagle until all of Amtrak's fleet of Sightseeing Lounges have been refurbished. Why screw Texas Amtrak?
@@fabianingrassia3329 he just means you dont have to pay extra
Yeah unless they've changed it in the last month, the snack counter isn't free.
@@ronclark9724 As you probably know flex dining was installed by CEO Richard Anderson who was installed by the Trump administration. Was he responsible for the planning to remove the observation car? Idk. Anderson is from Texas.
I've been an Amtrak fan for years! Glad that I found your channel. Love it.
As a born and raised Texan, it's the best place in the world. Never living anywhere else
*totally agreed; been to so many countries, living in Texas for last 22 years I must say there's no country like USA, no state like Texas, no city like Houston, and no suburb like sugar land*
A really great video - with excellent filming and narration - what a journey! Good to see traditional dining (and tablecloths) return. Loved the names of some of the towns you travelled through - we've got a 'Hope' here in the UK.......but as far as I know - no 'Normal!' Will check out your other journey's.
Absolutely fantastic trip report Jeb, and the bloopers for this one might be the funniest of any yet!😸
I’ve never been to W. Texas. It’s such a beautiful place. I going to have to take this trip. I love trains. I need to go to N. M. Being a city girl…. I’m amazed with all the open spaces in the west! Amtrak is an adventure of a lifetime. 💫
Two thumbs up 👍👍!!! Kudos Jeb for another on point, spot on, masterful presentation and commentary 👏. I have always enjoyed watching your plane ride reviews, and with your upbeat, honestly told Amtrak videos, I am re-inspired to ride the rails. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
Always love your videos and they make me want to travel! Plus, it is great to see a fellow watch guy. Loving the VC! 😎
I am a youtube junkie. Such a great way to learn , sometimes usless information. Great information here! My spouse and I find you and your spouse so comforting.
Thank you for your travels and comments. We are going on a train trip with a 9 year old soon and your travels are inspiring and informative! Keep up the great work!🤗
This was a great video! The ride must have taken so long to get to Lax. But the views and things you must have seen on the journey must have made It fly by. Definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for the video Jeb! And cya on the rails!🛤🚂👍
Most people traveling between Los Angeles and Chicago will take the Southwest Chief instead of the Texas Eagle because the Chief is a more direct route between the 2 cites and doesn't have to wait hours to connect to another train like the Eagle does in San Antonio!
@@norfolksouthernrailfan2006 For most yes. But for those served by the Eagle the Eagle is better, especially if you live in America's second largest populated state, Texas... Frankly Amtrak's service in Texas is very, very poor considering Texas is LARGER than Illinois... Get with it Amtrak!
30:33 El Paso has the famous 'Burrito Lady' selling food on the platform. She's been there for years. $3-4 each.
Thanks Jeb, we've now both taken the Alaska R/R, however I've only taken Amtrak from Seattle to L.A.( not in a sleeper mind you). Great video, especially of areas of the south I haven't seen! Safe travels!!
Hey Jeb. After viewing several of your Amtrak videos, I'm seriously considering taking the Texas Eagle. After being on this planet for 68 years, my only experience with trains have been limited to both Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm. Pretty awful wouldn't you say! Lol 🤣
try any train. :) it's just such an interesting experience to get from A to B while being able to walk around or just sit down and stare outside at the world without having to think of traffic.
If you're planning any overnights on the train, spend the extra money for a Roomette, or Bedroom. Otherwise, it will be miserable. With sleeping accommodations, your meals are included, as are the station VIP lounges. All the best to you!
There are millions of us without training.
Just got home in Appleton Wisconsin last week. I took the Texas Eagle to Tucson and back. I rode coach and had a great ride. One of the best things about Amtrak coach is you meet people who you sort of buddy up with in your car. This has always been the case with me and the Texas Eagle was no different. Amtrak takes good care of you but it is not Singapore airlines. If you expect champagne bubble baths Amtrak is not for you. However if you enjoy adventure and can tolerate a few bumps, Amtrak is the way to go. The snacks served in the cafe are reasonably priced and very good. The coach seats are comfortable. I have taken three Amtrak rides now. The Empire Builder, the Hiawatha and the Texas Eagle. Next spring I am taking the Southwest Chief. Try it for a short haul first and experience it before commiting to a long ride. I love Amtrak.
Love your videos as always Jeb, was nice to see Texas again. I did a road trip in the state for 3 weeks a few years back when I visited from the UK
I traveled to work via the TRE (here in Dallas) and DART and would see the Amtrak train roll in regularly. Cool to see what's inside and where it goes.
Jeb, you need your own TV show or Netflix series. You're narration style is so unique and soothing.
Jeb, great video as always. I love your Amtrak videos. Some movie trivia for you, the staircase you show at Union Station was where the baby carriage/shootout scene in the Untouchables was filmed. At one time they had a plaque somewhere near there mentioning that. Keep up the great work. Steve R.
At 10:58 that’s the new watertower in Gardner IL. My brother’s company painted it in 2021